Members of the Filipino community gather at a memorial site for the victims of an incident where a car drove through a crowd, killing multiple people in Vancouver, Monday, April 28, 2025. Tents from the Lapu Lapu festival remain up behind police lines. THE CANADIAN PRESS
Talks are in motion to establish a permanent memorial honouring the victims of the tragic SUV attack at the Lapu Lapu Day festival in Vancouver. Eleven lives were lost during the April 26 incident, which left the community in shock and mourning.
Strangers United in Grief
RJ Aquino of Filipino BC, the group that organized the event, said the existing temporary memorial has become a powerful site of connection. It is located along the fence of a local Vancouver high school, now covered in flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages.
Aquino shared that he’s seen strangers comfort each other, forming bonds while grieving. The space has evolved into more than just a tribute—it’s become a symbol of shared healing.
A Permanent Memorial in the Works
Preliminary discussions are underway with city officials and the Vancouver School Board to create a permanent tribute near the site. Aquino stressed that this must be done with “respect and thoughtfulness.”
“People are grieving deeply, even if they weren’t at the scene,” he said. “This event has affected the wider community. The healing process will be long.”
For now, the temporary memorial will remain untouched, continuing to serve as a place of reflection and mourning.
Proposal to the School Board
Vancouver school board trustee Preeti Faridikot plans to introduce a motion next month to support the permanent memorial. However, she emphasized the importance of moving slowly and sensitively, respecting the pain and cultural values of those impacted.
“This will not be on school property,” Faridikot clarified. “It’s about collaboration—with the Filipino community, affected families, city, province, and school board all working together.”
Community Steps Up with Support
Support for victims and their families is coming from across British Columbia. Filipino BC has partnered with United Way BC in a growing donation campaign. Funds are being used to meet urgent needs—like replacing damaged personal items and covering child care or living expenses.
Aquino, who has been visiting survivors in the hospital, said the goal is to ease the burden of disrupted lives. “We want to make sure no one falls behind financially because of this,” he said.
Donations Surpass $450,000
Kristi Rintoul from United Way BC confirmed that the donation campaign has already raised over $450,000 in just one week. She emphasized that the funds will offer long-term help, including mental health support and counseling.
“Trauma shows up in waves,” Rintoul said. “We want people to know these resources will be there for them whenever they’re needed.”
Faith Community Lends a Hand
At a memorial mass held last Friday, Archbishop J. Michael Miller announced that all 77 parishes across Vancouver would take part in a special collection drive over the weekend.
“This is our way of standing in solidarity,” Miller said. “The money will help cover both urgent needs and long-term recovery efforts for the victims and their families.”
A Community Determined to Heal
What started as a joyful cultural celebration ended in tragedy, but the aftermath has sparked something powerful. Strangers have come together in sorrow, united in their resolve to support one another. From proposals for a lasting memorial to a widespread fundraising movement, the Vancouver community is proving that love and solidarity can emerge even in the darkest times.
